Yes, there is sometimes a link between weight gain and sleep deprivation.
Too many sleepless nights can cause all kinds of problems like:
1. decreased energy,
2. constant cravings for sugary foods (for quick energy),
3. metabolic problems,
4. stressed-out feelings and
5. decreased workout performance.
Getting enough sleep lately? Being "too busy" all the time is not good! Sometimes we use it as an excuse to not do the things we should---LIKE EXERCISE! If you aren't sleeping (resting) enough, you are hindering your health and fat loss/weight loss goals!
When you wake up during the night because you can't sleep, you are likely to eat when you should be sleeping. You are likely to eat high-fat/high-calorie foods like ice cream, cookies and chocolate instead of fruit and vegetables! And, you will throw your metabolism "out of wack."
Researchers have found that the less sleep the test subjects got, the higher their body fat. The shorter sleep time altered the subjects hormone levels, energy decreased and appetite increased. And we already knew that decreased energy affects your workout performance. What's enough sleep? The general rule is 8 hours of sleep a night. Some may need more or a little less than 8 hours of sleep. Don't sabotage your exercise program and fat loss/weight loss goals by not getting enough shut-eye.
And, let’s not forget about those energy drinks on the market! Energy drinks are a trap for those of you who don’t get enough sleep! Many are looking for that quick energy! Therefore, the energy drink business is a huge industry! Save your money!
Any weight loss/fat loss goals will be accomplished primarily by your hard work and a well-designed fitness program. You can accomplish your fitness goals without ever drinking 1 ounce from an energy drink! And, energy drinks often cause you to crash lower than the previous "energy high" provided by the drink.
You will get plenty of energy from proper nutrition, vitamins and adequate sleep. Also, remember that many energy drinks are loaded with sugar which might hinder your nutritional goals. Energy drinks are also usually loaded with caffiene. Save your money on energy drinks and try a good cup of coffee (with no sugar)!
One or two cups of coffee can help your exercise performance. Researchers from the University of Luton reviewed 39 published caffeine studies. They found that caffeine users improved endurance exercise performance and short/high intensity exercise performance by 12.4% when compared to groups using placebos. The risks associated with moderate caffeine use are pretty small. If caffeine is part of your diet, use it wisely to help your exercise performance.
Sleep (rest), recovery (from workouts), good nutrition and regular exercise work together to make you fit and healthy!
Mark Dilworth, Certified Personal Trainer
Her Fitness Hut http://herfitnesshut.com